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The Best DVDs of 2003

The Best DVDs of 2003


We review lots and lots of DVDs each year. Of the many many hundreds which we review, only a very small percentage attain a perfect 5 out of 5 score overall. Below, for your viewing pleasure are the 41 DVDs which have attained our perfect 5 out of 5 score for the year of 2003. This is not a "Top 10" of 2003. This is simply a list of the best of the best of the DVDs that we've come across for 2003. (The DVDs are listed in reverse release date order, not by the date of our review.)

2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010


Saving Private Ryan (DTS) (1998)
Paramount
Cover Art 		Expertly written by Robert Rodat, and brilliantly directed by Steven Spielberg, "Saving Private Ryan" was an astounding critical and commercial success. This is a film that has left an indelible imprint on movie-going audiences world-wide. From the brutal and shocking carnage and chaos of its opening to the demoralising and crushing mission finale, Spielberg has created a searching, philosophical film through the crafting of unforgettable film images and sound. This two-disc DVD edition easily gets five stars for both its content and for the amazing quality of its video and audio transfers.

Released 12-Nov-2003
Reviewed 26th March 2004 by Brandon


Concert for George (2003)
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Cover Art 		A year to the day after George Harrison's passing, his closest friends gathered at the Royal Albert Hall for a one-off performance, showcasing George's most celebrated music and some of his personal favourites. Emotionally performed, beautifully filmed, stunningly produced and wonderfully presented on DVD, this is a highly recommended music title.

Released 11-Dec-2003
Reviewed 5th January 2004 by RobG


The Four Feathers (2002)
Miramax
Cover Art 		"Four Feathers" (2002) is the latest adaptation of A.E.W. Mason's novel of the same name. It is a lavish, epic movie that tells a compelling story of courage, loyalty, friendship, redemption, and the triumph of the human spirit. If, like me, you love "Lawrence of Arabia", "Zulu", or epic movies generally, then this is definitely one for you (at least to rent). As a big-screen epic, I enjoyed this movie both on my widescreen television and with my projector. I must add that if you're fortunate enough to see this DVD projected in a home theatre you will not be disappointed. Apart from the excellent image, it also boasts one of the best surround sound experiences that I've enjoyed in a long time. I have reviewed over 150 DVDs for the site, and this is one of the very few that I've given 5 stars to!

Released 19-Apr-2004
Reviewed 4th January 2004 by Brandon


Led Zeppelin-How the West Was Won (DVD-Audio) (1972)
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Cover Art 		This is the ideal companion to the Led Zeppelin DVD, and is certainly a release that any rock-loving, surround capable Dad would love to see in his Xmas stocking this year. This is a first class concert mix, however DVD-Video users will find a glitch is present. Good motivation for you to upgrade!

Released 26-Nov-2003
Reviewed 16th December 2003 by RobG


Alien: Quadrilogy (1979)
Fox
Cover Art 		So, the Quadrilogy as a whole - what do I think? In short? Very impressive. In long? Maybe you should read the review...

Released 8-Dec-2003
Reviewed 9th December 2003 by Tony R


Noir-Volume 5: Terminal Velocity (2001)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		Only two more discs after this one, then where will we go for truly stylish anime featuring some of the deadliest women around? At least this fix of the lethal ladies contains some very good episodes...

Released 18-Nov-2003
Reviewed 2nd December 2003 by Tony R


Doctor Who-The Three Doctors (1973)
BBC
Cover Art 		A superb package of a classic and significant Dr Who story. The story itself was a 'special' to mark the 10th anniversary of the show in 1973 and now, as part of the celebration of Dr Who's 40th Anniversary, it has been remastered and combined with loads of valuable extras. I cannot recommend this more highly as a must-own for any fans of the show, but especially the many who fondly recall the Pertwee era as the peak of this wonderful, long running series.

Released 11-Nov-2003
Reviewed 20th November 2003 by SatzR


Star Trek: Deep Space Nine-Complete Season 4 (1995)
Paramount
Cover Art 		An excellent season of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and the benchmark against which the rest of the franchise should measure itself. This show only gets better after this. Finally, Paramount Home Entertainment have complemented the DVD release of this series with the kind of audio and video transfer this show deserves. Stick it on, turn it up loud and be prepared to be impressed.

Released 12-Nov-2003
Reviewed 20th November 2003 by Edward M


Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers: Special Extended Edition (2002)
New Line Cinema
Cover Art 		One of the releases of the year. That's pretty much all I need to say. This is the only disc I have ever awarded five stars to in every category. Rush out and buy it now - or maybe read the review first and then rush out and buy it tomorrow when it is released.

Released 17-Nov-2003
Reviewed 17th November 2003 by Darren W


The Mummy Returns (Superbit) (2001)
Universal
Cover Art 		This Superbit version is truly superb in both the audio and video quality and is of reference quality in both respects. There are no extras.

Released 9-Sep-2003
Reviewed 17th November 2003 by Peter M


X-Men 2 (X2): Two-Disc Special Edition (2003)
Fox
Cover Art 		After the original X-Men movie, we were promised "bigger and better" for its sequel. For once, a studio delivered on its promise, and what we get is a much deeper, more involved film continuing the story of mutants trying to survive and find their place in a hostile world. A great movie, well presented in an excellent DVD package, brimming with extras of substance.

Released 27-Oct-2003
Reviewed 18th October 2003 by David L


Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Paramount
Cover Art 		A film we have been waiting years for, and it's finally here. Could any disc measure up to the expectations we have of this disc? Has the wait been worth it? Do you really think I'm going to telegraph the answers to those questions? Nope, you'll have to read the review...

Released 21-Oct-2003
Reviewed 17th October 2003 by Tony R


Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle (2003)
Columbia Pictures
Cover Art 		Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle is as filled with awesome stunts as xXx, but much funnier, and the ladies are much easier on the eyes. It's as funny as The Sweetest Thing, but has a heap more explosions and fight scenes. It's an excellent sequel to the first Charlie's Angels. Strongly recommended if you liked the first one.

Released 17-Nov-2003
Reviewed 10th October 2003 by Tony R


Noir-Volume 4: Death Warrant (2001)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		The lethal ladies are back, with more merciless massacres mowing down murderous men. Alliteration aside, this is an excellent series. It's easy to grow fond of Mireille and Kirika, the deadly duo called Noir.

Released 10-Sep-2003
Reviewed 11th September 2003 by Tony R


Bloody Sunday (2002)
Portman
Cover Art 		One of the finest films to come out of last year, Paul Greengrass' quasi-documentary style dramatisation of the shocking events that took place in Derry, Northern Island on 30 January 1972, Bloody Sunday is a must see item. Presented here with a stunning visual transfer and an incredibly detailed sound field, this is almost too real. Gripping, moving and all the more important given the current state of world affairs and the ongoing problems associated with urban pacification, counter-insurgency and civil strife.

Released 8-Oct-2003
Reviewed 28th August 2003 by Edward M


The Cure-Trilogy (2002)
Splinter Films
Cover Art 		The best music DVD I have ever had the privilege to review, this is also an important piece of music history – The Cure playing their three darkest albums (Pornography, Disintegration and Bloodflowers) in their entirety back-to-back, all live in front of an enormous crowd in Berlin. Epic, stirring and masterful. Flawless audio and video make this a must-have.

Released 4-Aug-2003
Reviewed 16th August 2003 by Edward M


Tuck Everlasting (2002)
Walt Disney Pictures
Cover Art 		A simple story, told fairly simply, that raises some deep questions. Originally a children's book, this has been made into a very good movie. One to watch with your children, and talk to them about; or to watch by yourself, and simply enjoy.

Released 29-Mar-2004
Reviewed 2nd August 2003 by Tony R


Das Boot: The Director's Cut (Superbit) (1997)
Columbia Pictures
Cover Art 		Wow! At last a stunning dts audio transfer in the original German. Picture quality which seems little changed from the previous Director's cut, but sound which blows other versions out of the water. A superb film given the best possible treatment. Buy this immediately and treasure it forever. Phenomenal stuff.

Released 14-Jul-2003
Reviewed 9th July 2003 by Daniel O


Shakespeare in Love (Superbit) (1998)
Universal
Cover Art 		A modern masterpiece. Paltrow and Fiennes burn up the screen in this utterly mesmerising film. Superb video. Great audio. A top-rank script, marvellous cinematography and a superlative ensemble cast make this a film not to be missed. The Superbit dts track improves on the already excellent previous Region 4 release.

Released 14-Jul-2003
Reviewed 6th July 2003 by Daniel O


The Fast and the Furious (Superbit) (2001)
Universal
Cover Art 		An already stunning disc gets...ever so slightly stunninger! Perfect audio with an improved Dolby Digital 5.1 and mindblowing dts track. Superb video transfer. High octane thrills and spills. A popcorn movie supreme, featuring a calorie-reduced "lite" plot. Kick back, crank the amplifier to "11" and enjoy!

Released 14-Jul-2003
Reviewed 5th July 2003 by Daniel O


Gladiator (Superbit) (2000)
Universal
Cover Art 		The DVD release that had a dts track. The dts track (and extras) that made the title a best seller. The best seller that now prompts a Superbit re-release. "A hero will rise." Indeed.

Released 14-Jul-2003
Reviewed 4th July 2003 by Christine T


Noir-Volume 3: The Firing Chamber (2001)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		This series has become one to which I look forward eagerly each time. There are only three episodes on this disc, but they are good ones. Now I have to wait for the next disc (drat!). Not suitable for children, but it will appeal to any adult who enjoyed La Femme Nikita, for example.

Released 2-Jul-2003
Reviewed 4th July 2003 by Tony R


Terminator 2: Judgment Day: Ultimate Edition (1991)
Carolco
Cover Art 		The Terminator 2 Ultimate Edition has finally arrived in Region 4. It seems ironic that it arrives just as the Region 1 Ultimate Edition is turned into a "penultimate" edition. Doesn't matter — buy this version and enjoy it, because it's excellent.

Released 4-Jul-2003
Reviewed 27th June 2003 by Tony R


Steel Angel Kurumi-Volume 3 (1999)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		The high standards set by the first two volumes continue in this third volume. This series is a lot of fun for adults, but is not suitable for children — don't let the seeming innocence deceive you.

Released 17-Jun-2003
Reviewed 25th June 2003 by Tony R


Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi): Limited Edition (2001)
Studio Ghibli
Cover Art 		And now the Limited Edition of Spirited Away... It's not the same as the two-disc Region 1 version, and I actually prefer it. If you want extras with your film, this may well be the one for you.

Released 6-Jun-2003
Reviewed 9th June 2003 by Tony R


Treasure Planet (2002)
Walt Disney Pictures
Cover Art 		Based on Robert Louis Stevenson's famous adventure story, "Treasure Island", "Treasure Planet" is Walt Disney's latest animated feature to arrive on DVD, and only the second DVD that I've reviewed to score a perfect 5 stars across the board.

Released 20-May-2003
Reviewed 18th May 2003 by Brandon


Die Another Day: Special Edition (2002)
MGM
Cover Art 		"Die Another Day" is a beautiful 007 pastiche, made by Bond fans for Bond fans. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Bond movies, and being the 20th Bond film, the 007 producers pulled out all the stops to create what has to be one of the most exhilarating Bond movies of all time. Often nostalgic, "Die Another Day" pays homage to the Bond universe by managing to cleverly reference every Bond movie ever made. Boasting immaculate video and audio, "Die Another Day" is also a real treat for all DVD enthusiasts. The DVD's technical specs alone made me drool: 16x9 enhanced widescreen image, with the audio options of Dolby Digital 5.1 EX and dts 6.1 ES Matrix . . . Mmmm.

Released 3-Jun-2003
Reviewed 8th May 2003 by Brandon


K-PAX (2001)
Intermedia
Cover Art 		The rental disc of K-PAX had a brilliant transfer, but no extras. This retail version adds the important extras, but retains the brilliant transfer — my hopes have been realised!

Released 29-Jan-2003
Reviewed 2nd May 2003 by Tony R


Steel Angel Kurumi-Volume 2 (1999)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		The second volume of episodes of an excellent new anime series. Not one for children (it's not M-rated by accident) but really good watching for adults.

Released 14-Apr-2003
Reviewed 1st May 2003 by Tony R


Steel Angel Kurumi-Volume 1 (1999)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		A surprising and enjoyable new anime series for adults starts with this volume. It's cheerful, violent, and fun — what more do you ask for? Recommended for adult anime fans.

Released 14-Apr-2003
Reviewed 30th April 2003 by Tony R


GTO-Volume 2: The Bully (1998)
TokyoPop Anime
Cover Art 		The second disc in the series about a teacher whose unorthodox methods makes him stand out from the crowd, Great Teacher Onizuka continues to be a highly watchable anime presented on a superb DVD. Highly recommended.

Released 14-Feb-2003
Reviewed 26th April 2003 by Mitchell H


Black Hawk Down: Collector's Edition (2001)
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Cover Art 		Ridley Scott's absorbing and intense film, "Black Hawk Down", has been released as a magnificent 3-disc "Collector's Edition". Columbia Tristar, who continually deliver the goods for R4 DVD fanatics, such as myself, have delivered once again, with a magnificent transfer of a great movie, and an extras package that is one of the most comprehensive and genuine that I have ever seen. In over one hundred DVD reviews, this is the first DVD that I have awarded 5-Stars across the board!

Released 14-May-2003
Reviewed 16th April 2003 by Brandon


GTO-Volume 1: Great Teacher Onizuka (1998)
TokyoPop Anime
Cover Art 		Who would have thought that the exploits of a 22 year old virgin teacher would be so entertaining? With incredible characters and storylines, it's not hard to realise why this is one of the best anime series to be released in a while. Presented on one damn fine DVD, too. Highly recommended.

Released 14-Feb-2003
Reviewed 27th March 2003 by Mitchell H


Noir-Volume 1: Shades of Darkness (2001)
ADV Films
Cover Art 		Cinema noir meets anime — an interesting idea. This chic, stylish, new series features two lethal ladies who are looking for details of their past. They have no compunction about killing anyone who gets in their way. Strongly recommended for adults. Not one to show to children, though, unless you want them to grow up as assassins...

Released 12-Mar-2003
Reviewed 21st March 2003 by Tony R


Enough: Collector's Edition (2002)
Columbia Pictures
Cover Art 		A disturbing, well-made thriller, or a horror film without anything supernatural, this film has been given a top-class presentation on DVD. Although it covers much of the same ground as Sleeping with the Enemy, it has enough originality to stand on its own. The movie features excellent performances from Billy Campbell and Tessa Allen.

Released 27-May-2003
Reviewed 15th March 2003 by Tony R


Twister: Special Edition (1996)
Universal
Cover Art 		"Twister", one of the original DVD 'demo discs', has been given the Special Edition treatment. Hang on, because this tense, nail-biting, special effects extravaganza will blow you (and your home theatre speakers) away! Be warned: whereas the original DVD shook your house, this disc will shake your entire neighbourhood!

Released 5-Mar-2003
Reviewed 17th February 2003 by Brandon


The Patriot (2000) (Superbit)
Columbia Pictures
Cover Art 		"The Patriot" is one of my all-time favourite home-theatre gems. I have owned every version of this DVD in R1 and R4, and to finally have my hands on the R4 Superbit has brought me great pleasure.

Released 3-Jan-2003
Reviewed 7th February 2003 by Brandon


Bram Stoker's Dracula (Superbit) (1992)
Columbia Pictures
Cover Art 		"Bram Stoker's Dracula" is an absorbing, detailed, and sensuous adaptation of the famous novel, which expertly combines the genres of romance and horror. The original DVD was inducted into our Hall Of Fame, and the Superbit DVD manages to be even better!

Released 3-Jan-2003
Reviewed 6th February 2003 by Brandon


Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002)
New Line Cinema
Cover Art 		Goldmember is a thoroughly enjoyable comedy-adventure, beautifully presented on an expertly authored DVD. This DVD has a breath-takingly beautiful transfer — a term that I have never used before, in over 100 DVD reviews. Also boasting an amazing quality in audio, with Dolby Digital 5.1 EX, and DTS ES Discrete 6.1 audio options, I note that these audio specs are even BETTER than the recent Superbit releases have had to offer. Goldmember raises the bar in what we can expect from DVD distributors. "Yeah Baby!"

Released 18-Feb-2003
Reviewed 3rd February 2003 by Brandon


The Fifth Element (Superbit) (1997)
Columbia Pictures
Cover Art 		The original DVD demo disc reappears, now with the Superbit label. Is it better? Is it worth the money? Am I going to tell you the answers, or do I want you to read the review?

Released 3-Jan-2003
Reviewed 25th January 2003 by Tony R


Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (Superbit) (2000)
Sony Pictures Clsscs
Cover Art 		Superbit discs have reached Region 4, and the first one is a marvellous presentation of a brilliant film. If you have a high-end home theatre, you MUST get this disc.

Released 3-Jan-2003
Reviewed 11th January 2003 by Tony R